BRITAIN takes in more asylum seekers than any other industrialised country, according to figures from a major international body today.

Despite a fall of almost 40 per cent in the number of asylum applications in 2003, Britain still topped the table produced by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development - ahead of the US, France and Germany.

Britain has led the list of states receiving asylum seekers since 1999, when it took over top spot from Germany, according to the OECD's annual report.

In 2003, Britain received 49,369 applications for asylum, down from 84,135 the year before, according to OECD figures.

Including spouses and dependants, the total number entering the country to seek asylum reached 61,100.

By comparison, the US had applications for 60,700 individuals, France 51,400 and Germany 50,500.

Overall, net migration stood at 153,400 in 2002, a 12 per cent rise on the previous year, caused by 512,800 people entering and 359,400 leaving.

The report showed foreign nationals now make up 4.5 per cent of the population - 2.68 million.

Rising migration to Britain was partly due to the policy of managed migration, with work permits easier people with in-demand skills or seasonal workers, the report said.